Vfend, or voriconazole, is a prescription medication that is known as an azole antifungal. It is used to treat fungal infections such as aspergillosis, throat infection and deep tissue infection. Vfend prevents the outer wall of the fungal cells from forming normally, and the cells eventually die. Patients may experience side effects with this medication and should speak with a physician if there are any concerns.
Vision Changes
The most common side effect of voriconazole is visual disturbances. About 30 percent of patients may develop vision changes. According to "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach," symptoms occur during the first week of therapy and decrease or disappear as time goes on. Patients may experiences altered color discrimination, blurred vision, sensitivity to sunlight and the appearance of bright spots and wavy lines. Driving a vehicle or operating heavy machinery may be hazardous due to the risk of these side effects. Visual disturbances are reversible and do not cause any permanent damage to the eyes. If vision changes do not decrease, the patient may be experiencing the effects of an overdose and should seek medication attention immediately.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common gastrointestinal side effects that may occur with the use of Vfend. These adverse reactions may occur in about five percent of individuals, reports the "Drug Information Handbook." The patient should eat small frequent meals and practice frequent mouth care. Chewing gum may also help prevent these effects. If nausea and vomiting become severe, the patient should contact a physician.
Elevated Liver Enzymes
The azole antifungals, such as Vfend, may produce an increase in liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase, ALT and AST. About four percent of individuals may develop a rise in enzymes. The "Drug Information Handbook" explains that caution should be used in patients with pre-existing liver impairment. The patient may need a lower dose in mild to moderate liver impairment. Patients who have severe liver impairment should only be administered the drug if the benefits of treatment outweigh risks; close monitoring for signs of toxicity is important in these patients.
Rash
Rash may occur in up to six percent of patients using Vfend. The patient should inform a physician to ensure that this is not an allergic reaction. If the rash worsens or is accompanied by itchiness or hives, the patient should discontinue the medication right away and receive medical help. The patient must never be administered the drug again; a medication from the same class may be prescribed, but should be given with caution due to the risk of an allergy.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
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